HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – A repurposed lumberyard used mostly for private events, weddings, fundraisers and office parties has become an all-ages, pet-friendly hangout for the public two nights a week in downtown Huntsville.

A.M. Booth's Lumberyard, which began in 1895 and remained until the 1950s when it became Bill Clemmons Auto Parts, represents a by-gone era with historic sheds, a train car and tons of cool, old knick knacks recycled from the past or donated by friends and customers.

Owner Doug Smith purchased the property on Cleveland Avenue about seven years ago, and since then, has rented out the space for special events. Recently, the Lumberyard began offering food, live music and drink specials on Monday and Wednesday evenings for the first time.

"Now that we've expanded and have some new spaces and we're trying to make it all-weather, we want utilize more of the space more often instead of just relying on weddings and weekend stuff," said Jessica Smith, Doug's daughter and event manager. "People love this place and they always say, 'I wish it were public,' so we're giving in to what the public wants."

Since mid-June, the Lumberyard has opened from 5:30-10 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, and remains closed for private events on the weekends. Admission is free, but food and drinks are available both nights for customers to purchase.

The public events initially attracted crowds of about 50 people, but have grown to more than 100 in recent weeks. Bartender Matt Ortega said the Lumberyard can hold up to 676 customers.

"There's no other venue in downtown that has the capacity inside and outside that can hold the amount of people we have here," he said.

Earlier this year, the Lumberyard added an indoor stage and covered areas to provide shelter from the rain and other inclement weather. Smith said the nearby Bicycles Etc. also moved into another warehouse, so they are looking to use that space, as well.

Monday is singer-songwriter night, while Wednesday typically features a live jazz act. Kids (and adults) who attend the Lumberyard's public food and music events can also take advantage of pool tables, badminton, cornhole and Trivial Pursuit games.

Smith said recent downtown growth has had a positive impact on the Lumberyard and other businesses at the property. Hopeful about the area's development, Smith believes there is the potential for more public events at the Lumberyard in the not so distance future.

"We're just trying to become more aware to the public so more people can enjoy it," Smith said. "We're all about building the community."